Around 5,000 cyclists are thought likely to flock to a major new charity cycle event to be staged in Muirfield on April next year.

In what’s seen as a groundbreaking new west of Scotland fixture it will be staged in aid of St Andrew’s Hospice, and have a route which involves a 6.500ft climb and a series of North Lanarkshire landmarks including Palacerigg, Kilsyth and Dullatur.

Organised with the help of local councillor John McLaren and Provost Jim Morrison the event will be am “etape” rather than a race, and will appeal to a broad range of cyclists.

Local clubs will also be to the fore, but entries are expected from across the country.

Councillor McLaren said: “It will cost £150,000 to close roads while the cyclists pass, but if those taking part raise a minimum sponsorship of £100 that will be covered.”

He says a target of £500,000 for St Andrew’s funds is an attainable goal, and is relying on local cycling fanatics to help spread the word about the new event.

The provisional date for the spectacular is April 17, and further details will be released in due course.